After multiple inaccurate reports Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division steps in to remind operators of existing tracking requirements
It seems as though reports of Colorado removing tracking requirements have been greatly exaggerated. In fact, the new rules surrounding traceability requirements effective January 8, 2024, only replaced the reference to RFID tags with “inventory tracking system” because the department is considering alternative tracking solutions for when its existing vendor contract expires in 2026. The slight tweak in language does not eliminate requirements for operators to use inventory tracking tags. According to Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division senior director Dominique Mendiola the change was only made to create a more equitable solicitation process for competing vendors.
“Through this update, the Division is deliberately enhancing the competitive nature of its solicitation, where our options will no longer be limited to vendors that couple their inventory tracking systems with RFID technology,” Mendiola said in a press release. “Inventory tracking with RFID-tags has been a requirement since the inception of Colorado’s adult-use program and we want to ensure regulations evolve where opportunities exist. With one of the most mature adult-use cannabis markets in the nation, this is a critical opportunity to reflect on what we have learned and how our regulatory needs could still be met by the variety of inventory tracking solutions available today. We look forward to engaging licensees throughout this process.”
The changes go into in January, which include new updates to help operators streamline their businesses, were informed by stakeholder contributions gathered by the MED during the eight stakeholder workgroups it hosted during 2023. To review the changes going into effect in January, check out the MED’s rulemaking page.